Archive - August 24, 2008 - The Page by Mark Halperin

The Senator speaks in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Remarks focus on economic anxieties, hitting McCain on energy, being out-of-touch, and more. Also hits McCain on national security, saying, "Talking tough and acting dumb is not a way to keep you safe and secure." Begins by joking that he wants to keep Secret Service protection for his daughters, as they approach their teenage years. Ends with-- "Let's go get a bratwurst!" McCain camp responds: "Today, Barack Obama attacked John McCain for voting for the 2002 Iraq War Resolution; Joe Biden also voted for the resolution." Permalink

THEY TALKED!

Obama and Bill Clinton hold a "fairly long conversation" Thursday, TIME's Jay Newton-Small reports. The two discussed the campaign and convention message-- but not veep choices. It was at least the third time they've spoken. Obama and Sen. Clinton also spoke, on Friday. Permalink

"I'm Here to Join the Team"

Sen. Biden records a "welcome message" on Obama's Web site. Click above to watch. Plus: Biden spends a quiet Sunday at church and at home. Permalink

Obama Attends Church in Eau Claire

The candidate begins his day at the First Lutheran Church, where he brought his own Bible. More from TIME's Jay Newton-Small. The pastor, originally from Minnesota, says afterward-- he hasn't had "this much excitement since Jesse Ventura was elected." Plus: The Senator is expected to speak to the press on Monday, possibly on board his plane. Permalink

Denver Delegate Map

See who is sitting where at the Pepsi Center by clicking picture above or downloading pdf here. Permalink

Pawlenty Auditions for Veep

In a media conference call, the Minnestota governor says choosing Biden is an "overcompensation" for Obama's inexperience, and suggests the Delaware Senator may serve as Obama's mentor and supervisor. Listen to the call here. Also calls Biden "the consummate Washington insider" and notes that he and Obama were 12 years old when Biden entered the Senate. Referring to Obama's campaign theme asks, "Where's the change?" Also hits Obama on energy and taxes, saying his economic plan would be a "job-killer" that "throws a wet blanket" on businesses. Pawlenty is widely considered a finalist to be McCain's own running mate. Permalink

ON THE SUNDAY SHOWS

Reaction to Biden's selection, and attacks on McCain's multiple homes on Sunday's morning TV. Click here for more. Watch Giuliani slam Obama's choice on "This Week" -- click above. Permalink

More Details on Kennedy Tribute

Monday's tribute to the ailing Senator at the Democratic convention will include an 8-minute video directed by Ken Burns and Mark Herzog. Includes interviews with Sen. Kerry, Rep. Lewis, and ordinary people helped by Kennedy. Tribute will be introduced by Caroline Kennedy. Permalink

WashPost/ABC: Obama Up By Four

From WashPost/ABC: Obama: 49 McCain: 45 Poll was conducted before Biden announcement, though three-quarters said picking Biden would not sway their votes. Little general movement since mid-July: Obama stronger on the economy; McCain stronger as commander in chief. Obama considered more optimistic by 2:1. Conducted Aug 19-22. Error margin: 3 points. To see whom Clinton supporters are backing in the race and how many link McCain to Bush-- click here. Permalink

New Ad Uses Clinton to Slam Obama

McCain's latest TV spot features clips of Sen. Clinton criticizing Obama-- on Rezko, the tone of his campaign and more. Click above to watch or read script here. Suggests her attacks are the reason she's not his running mate. "The truth hurt, and Obama didn't like it." Ad will air in key states. Clinton spokeswoman responds: "Hillary Clinton’s support of Barack Obama is clear. She has said repeatedly that Barack Obama and she share a commitment to changing the direction of the country... John McCain doesn’t." Permalink